Devotion for Monday, May 24, 2021

“Brethren, I do not regard myself as having laid hold of it yet; but one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and reaching forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:13-14).

Do not dwell on what has gone on before.  Yes, you have sinned and there is no excuse, only grace and mercy avail.  Be guided by the call before you that in becoming like Christ, you are being prepared and created for what you will be.  In Him is life and that life is before you and not behind you.  Through thick and thin, press on toward the goal of the upward prize of life in the One who made you.

Lord, I am often tempted to look behind and dwell on the past.  Lift my eyes to You that I would look forward and see that in You, the Creator of all life, is the hope of the ages.  Help me to press forward when I stumble knowing that all in this life will prepare me in one way or another to be in and with You in eternity.  Let me never stop growing in faith, but always keep my eyes upon You when I stumble.

Lord Jesus, You are the model of godly life.  You have come so that I may have life and have it abundantly.  Guide me, O Lord, in the way of truth in order that I would now and forever live in and through You.  You are creating what You are creating and only in You will I be made complete.  Give me the strength I need to press on and through whatever will come my way this day.  Amen.